I this episode of Smith Lane, we’re joined by Stu Henderson—Owner and Design Architect at Fawley Bryant Architecture—to explore how architecture can deepen a community’s sense of place. Stu shares how his firm works across the sports, education, and government sectors to design spaces that reflect and serve the people who use them.
The conversation follows Stu’s path from art to architecture, the importance of designing spaces that embody the spirit of a community, and the ongoing balance between creative vision and business realities. We discuss accessibility and inclusive design, and Stu reflects on how architects observe and honor subtle human patterns—people gathering in shade, children playing, small groups connecting.
We also explore trends in multi-purpose community spaces and the importance of dreaming freely in the early design stages, before constraints like budget enter the picture. Stu shares how values like being hungry, humble, and smart guide his leadership, including in his role as Chairman of the Board of the Manatee Chamber of Commerce. This episode is a reminder that thoughtful architecture doesn’t just shape buildings—it shapes how we live and connect.
About Stu
A graduate of The University of Cincinnati’s School of Design, Art, Architecture and Planning, Stu joined Fawley Bryant in 2011. After moving from Erie, PA where he taught at Mercyhurst University for seven years, Stu returned to the field of architecture in the Bradenton/Sarasota area. Stu plays a key role at Fawley Bryant with his ability to turn a conceptual vision into reality. His creative pragmatism has played a fundamental role in the completion of large-scale sports and education projects like IMG Academy, CoolToday Stadium, and Binghamton University’s Baseball Complex. His 3D modeling and technological abilities allow clients and team members to visualize project considerations from a tangible and intuitive perspective. Stu currently serves as Chairman of the Board for the Manatee Chamber of Commerce and is an alum of Leadership Manatee’s 2019 class.
Connect with Stu
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